Salmon meat, both fresh and smoked, is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids found in other fatty fish like mackerel. Unfortunately, many western diets are lacking in omega-3 fatty acids, but we should try to include foods that contain them as they can help lower blood pressure, blood cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of bleeding. It helps keep the heart healthy, protects against certain types of cancer, and also helps stabilize our mood. It is not an antidepressant, but it has certain benefits for our state of mind as it is also high in protein. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help lower triglycerides, which are types of fat, in our blood, which is good news for people with type II diabetes, as they typically have higher than normal blood levels.
Smoked salmon is also rich in vitamin E, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and also has powerful antioxidants. This means that consuming smoked salmon can help fight free radicals that cause healthy cells to become cancerous.
Salmon contains bioactive peptides that may help maintain healthy cartilage around joints (knees, ankles, etc.) and also support the body's efficient use of insulin and may also help control and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. One of these bioactive peptides is calcitonin, which is produced by the thyroid and helps regulate and stabilize the balance of collagen and minerals in our bones and the tissues that surround and cushion them. The researchers hope to provide conclusive evidence that these bioactive peptides reduce inflammation, which would be good news for people with arthritis and rheumatism, as well as other inflammatory conditions.
Freshly smoked salmon contains some of the B vitamins needed for healthy blood and tissue production and nerve function. It also contains a trace element, selenium, which works with vitamin E to protect healthy cells in the body from toxins and their destructive effects. It can also inhibit the growth and multiplication of cancer cells, although more research is needed to show whether or not this is the case. Selenium is also vital for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland and is found in good amounts in fresh and smoked salmon.
One of the benefits of eating smoked salmon is that all parasites and worms are killed during the smoking process, making it virtually safe to eat raw. Another reason is that it's low in calories, and since it's high you can't eat too much at once. It also contains significant amounts of minerals like copper, selenium, and phosphorus, along with smaller amounts of calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and manganese. Unfortunately, smoked salmon contains high levels of sodium, which contributes to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as high blood pressure. This means that if you suffer from any of these diseases, it is not good to include them in your diet, at least in significant amounts. It is best avoided if you have high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, or diabetes. Some studies suggest that smoking creates unhealthy substances, but as long as you eat smoked salmon in moderation, you're unlikely to get sick from it.
However, if like me you love the richness of smoked salmon and have none of the health concerns listed above, it may be a good idea to add smoked salmon to your diet from time to time.
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